Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Ottawa says it has been awarded approximately $79 million in infrastructure-related funding since 2020. The funding has supported 195 projects across various categories, including housing, infrastructure resiliency, active transportation, and public transit.
The funding comes from 13 different federal and provincial programs, including the Active Transportation Fund, Building Faster Fund, Enabling Accessibility Fund, and Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program, says Tammy Rose, general manager of the cityโs Infrastructure and Water Services Department, in a Jan. 10 memo to Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and City Council.
“The City of Ottawa is well-prepared to respond to these funding programs,” Rose wrote. “Infrastructure and Water Services staff actively review government stimulus funding programs, identify opportunities, and ensure that they are maximized.”
The city’s final list of projects selected for each application process is chosen based on the ability to meet the funding program’s priorities, objectives, and timelines. Projects are prioritized based on needs assessments, Master Plan studies, and forecasting.
Many projects receiving funding from government programs have wrapped up this year, with final claims and reporting completed.
Pending applications
In addition to the funding opportunities that have been awarded, the city has also submitted applications for several new programs, including the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, FCM-Sustainable Municipal Buildings program, and Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program.
The city awaits approval on a number of funding applications, including:
- $1,000,000 to fund the replacement of two community wading pools (Overbrook and Greenboro)
- $50,000 to study the Feasibility of designing a new Riverside South Community Centre and Library Branch to Net Zero
- $614,250 to complete a project that will manage uncontrolled stormwater runoff in the Dovercourt Parking Lot
- $664,611 to complete a mechanical and electrical system retrofit project at the Carlingwood Library
- $13,650,000 towards the Greenbank Road expansion project
- $22,238,251.06 towards the reconstruction of the Carlington Heights Pumping Station
- $170,000 towards the expansion of the city’s Public EV Charger Network, and $430,000 towards the city’s Fleet EV Charging Infrastructure
New funding programs
The city is also reviewing eligibility conditions for several new funding programs, including the Skills Development Fund Capital Stream, Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund, and Active Transportation Fund.
“We are committed to securing funding for infrastructure projects that will improve the quality of life for our residents,” wrote Rose. “We will continue to work with our federal and provincial partners to ensure that Ottawa receives its fair share of funding.”